Wash your hands
Rinse the lip gently with cool water
Apply clean gauze or a clean cloth with firm, steady pressure
Hold pressure for 10 to 15 minutes without checking
Use a cold compress or ice wrapped in cloth on the outside of the lip
Keep your head elevated
Avoid licking, biting, or pulling at the lip
Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods and drinks
If the bleeding restarts, apply pressure again
Seek urgent medical care if bleeding does not stop after 15 to 20 minutes
Seek urgent medical care if the cut is deep, wide, or caused by a bite or dirty object
Seek urgent medical care if there is trouble breathing, swallowing, or a broken tooth
Seek urgent medical care if there are signs of infection, severe swelling, or severe pain
